June 30, 1997

SUMMERTIME, AND THE LIVING'S EASY

CHIN'S UP, CHESTS OUT, `N' THE HEAT GOES ON

By ROB GRANATSTEIN
Toronto Sun In addition to the usual hooting and hollering expected at the Miss CHIN Bikini Pageant there's an extra element of suspense - will today's topper be topless contestants?
"We've had a tough time with the bikinis in the past," said CHIN head Johnny Lombardi, referring to past pageant protests. "If the girls went topless I think I'd have to leave the country."
Lombardi is very concerned about what may happen. He said he's talked to all the girls personally and they've promised him they won't doff their tops.
"But once a press agent says he'll show their picture worldwide, you never know what will happen," he said.
Yesterday, a jovial Premier Mike Harris premiered the Tory three-step jig, arm in arm with Transport Minister Al Palladini on stage at the sun-drenched picnic. Harris laughed when told he was a day early for the bikini contest: "Aw, shucks," he joked.
While Toronto was basking in glorious sunshine all day long yesterday, an air-quality advisory was issued for Metro. Anyone with breathing problems should be on alert again as the humidity is expected to rise today, on top of the scorching 30C heat.
With the increased humidity comes a greater risk of a shower or thunderstorm. Environment Canada said there may be a shower late today.
Rain or shine, the Jays start their first-ever regular season battle with their Canadian cousins, the Montreal Expos, today at the SkyDome in the first of a three-game series.
Most stores will be open today but closed tomorrow, with beer stores open a little longer tonight. The Toronto Sun rises with a Canada Day issue. Regular postal service and garbage collection will be provided today. The TTC will be on a holiday schedule today and Canada Day.